2018 NBA Mock Draft (Top 10)

The 2018 NBA Draft is around the corner. This year's edition will be held this Thursday, June 21st at 7:00 p.m. ET. Top prospects such as Deandre Ayton, Luke Doncic, Mo Bamba and Marvin Bagley III are expected to go early within the top ten selections. Barring any trades, where will they end up? Here is my predictions on the first ten picks of the NBA Draft.

1. Phoenix Suns - Deandre Ayton (PF from Arizona)

This pick will be a no-brainer. Ayton is clearly the best draft prospect. He is a physically gifted and polished player who will provide an immediate boost to a young Suns team. Pairing him with the likes of Devin Booker and Josh Jackson will have Suns' fans excited for the future.

2. Sacremento Kings - Luka Doncic (SG from Slovenia)

The Kings desperately need a playmaker and someone to build around. Doncic was electric during his time with Real Madrid playing in EuroBasket. When Doncic is hot, it is hard to stop him.

3. Atlanta Hawks - Marvin Bagley III (PF from Duke)

The Hawks are another team who need a new face to build around. Bagley has all the tools on both sides of the ball. He can score, rebound, and defend well. Bagley is arguably the second best prospect in this draft class.

4. Memphis Grizzlies - Michael Porter Jr. (SF from Missouri)

Porter Jr. is the best wing player in this draft. He has everything you need at his position. Although his time at Missouri was limited to a few games, his ceiling is very high. The only question about Porter Jr. is his health. Do not be surprised if he slips lower within the top 10.

5. Dallas Mavericks - Jaren Jackson Jr. (PF from Michigan State)

Dirk Nowitzki is not getting any young. The Mavericks need to use this pick to fill the void that will be left by him. Jackson Jr. is a great defender who can shoot the three ball well and drive to the rim. He is still developing as a all-round scorer.

6. Orlando Magic - Trae Young (PG from Oklahoma)

Young to the Magic seems like destiny. The Magic need someone who can score from the guard positions. Young is a gifted shooter with great handles. He has even drawn comparisons to Steph Curry. But Young needs to work on being more physical and tougher.

7. Chicago Bulls - Mo Bamba (C from Texas)

Bamba is a unique player. His draft stock has risen significantly after the NBA combine. He has an impressive wingspan, he's quick and is a monster on defense. His scoring will take time to catch up with the rest of his game.

8. Cleveland Cavaliers - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SG from Kentucky)

The Cavaliers find themselves in a peculiar spot as they draft for a possible future without LeBron James. The Cavaliers need someone who can provide on both sides of the ball right away. Gilgeous-Alexander fills that role. He is very skilled with the basketball and can defend multiple positions.

9. New York Knicks - Mikal Bridges (SF from Villanova)

If Bridges is available when the Knicks are selecting, they should take him without a second thought. Bridges is very efficient on offense. He has improved greatly with the ball during his time with Villanova. Bridges' stock has risen during these last few weeks leading up to the draft. He could be a top five selection.

10. Philadelphia 76ers - Wendell Carter (PF from Duke)

The 76ers do not have a glaring need and should consider trading out of the top ten. If they are stuck with this pick, then they should select Carter. He will be quality player who can come off the bench. His intangibles, defensive prowess, and passing ability makes him an intriguing player. Like Bridges, Carter could go higher in this draft.